CBD products have become quite popular, especially in states where it is legal for both health and therapeutic uses. Ongoing studies show that CBD possesses plenty of health benefits and can be used to treat and manage mental health issues.
The studies also show that CBD has milder side effects than over-the-counter drugs. The risk of addiction and overdosing is also lower. However, CBD is a fairly new product, so there is plenty of misinformation around it.
Some marketers use pseudoscience to push narratives around CBD and fitness performance to attract more customers. Research about CBD and its effect on fitness performance is still ongoing.
Here, we will discuss more about CBD. You will also learn more about its benefits influencing your fitness journey.
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant. It possesses various health and therapeutic benefits. Unlike THC, another compound found in cannabis, CBD isn’t psychoactive.
CBD products have under 0.3% THC as per the 2018 Farm Bill. The big benefit is that with CBD products, you don’t experience any psychoactive effects like being high after smoking or consuming edibles.
Hemp strains are split into two categories: downers and lifters. Lifter strains elevate your moods and energy levels. They are perfect for a morning smoking session to start your day on a high. Most people use it to tackle fatigue and boredom.
Downer strains are the opposite lifter. They have a calming and relaxing effect and are nice for late-evening smoking. Downer strains are beneficial for reducing anxiety and stress and aiding sleep. Please refer to this page for more tips about hemp strains and their effects.
How CBD Affects Fitness Performance
Consistency and discipline are significant factors when it comes to health and fitness. Going to the gym early in the morning can be a hassle. Here is where CBD can come in handy for motivation and energy levels.
Lifter strains like Sour Space Candy and Suver Haze can replace coffee and give you enough motivation and energy to push through your workout session. Studies show that CBD can help improve blood flow and oxygen supply. Furthermore, this can help alleviate stress and anxiety disorders.
CBD and hemp contain anti-inflammation properties. For a while, CBD has been used to treat issues related to arthritis. Even though studies are still inconclusive, there is promise in the effectiveness of CBD as a pain reliever and muscle recovery.
Sleep and rest are crucial to muscle recovery and muscle growth. Studies show that CBD products are effective for managing insomnia. If you are into fitness and struggling to get quality sleep, try CBD gummies or oils a few hours before bed.
Fitness plateaus and no progress can be stressful for fitness newbies. Even though the studies on how CBD alleviates stress and mental health issues are still inconclusive, some users have reported positive feedback. If you are into fitness and get anxiety or panic attacks when going to the gym, CBD can help calm your nerves and give you confidence.
Cannabis also contains terpenes responsible for unique scents and flavors. In addition, terpenes contain anti-inflammatory, sedative, and muscle relaxant properties. Terpenes like Myrcene, Limonene, and Caryophyllene are responsible for appetite regulation.
CBD products with high THC content can stimulate your appetite, which is desirable for people on a weight gain regimen.
CBD Before or After Your Workout
CBD as a pre or post-workout is a matter of personal preference. Experts say CBD is more effective as a pre-workout because it helps get your motivation and energy levels. It also improves blood flow to your muscles and brain, thus promoting mobility.
As a post-workout, the benefits are equally good for your fitness progress. CBD can help you reduce the time for muscle recovery, reduce inflammation, and improve muscle recovery.
However, the mode of ingestion determines how long it will take before the effects kick in. If you want quick results, we recommend going for tinctures. Research shows that these can be delivered faster through the sublingual blood vessels found in the tongue or floor of the mouth.
Try ointments to treat inflammation or pain in your joints or muscles. You may start feeling relieved after 15 minutes. When dosing CBD products, you should start slowly and work your way up. Wait around 15-45 minutes before taking another gummy or tincture.
Instances Where You Shouldn’t Try CBD
The side effects related to CBD products are mild. However, there are cases where you shouldn’t try CBD products for fitness performance or therapeutic benefits. Expectant or lactating mothers should not use CBD products. Research shows that the THC found in CBD products can affect brain development in fetuses and kids.
Also, if you are on medication, don’t use any CBD products until you get a pass from your physician or doctor. CBD affects the performance of certain enzymes in the body, thus rendering some medicines ineffective.
Don’t use CBD products if you have an underlying medical condition before a medical doctor has checked you. Dosing and self-medication can worsen your condition or lead to overdosing. Also, you may not get the desired effects that you are after. Talk to your physician, and they will advise on the recommended dosage guidelines to see if it can make a difference for you.
Wrapping Up
There is promise around the positives CBD can have on your fitness performance. Remember, research is still ongoing, and there is plenty of pseudoscience going around. We recommend consulting a physician on the recommended dosage before using CBD products.
The effects will also vary depending on gender, body type, and workout intensity. So, don’t try copying other people’s programs. Invest in a good workout regimen and diet plan first. CBD is more of a supplement to complement your workout routine.
Ensure that you buy your CBD tinctures and oils from reputable weed dispensaries. Read reviews and customer testimonials. Also, ensure that the product comes with a third-party lab certificate. This proves the product is 100% organic and safe for human consumption.
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